Tesla’s Cybertruck community has been up in arms recently about two issues: possible rust or corrosion of the electric pickup truck’s stainless steel panels and the ability to skip the waiting line for delivery in exchange for referral credits. Let’s take a look.

To recall: Tesla finally started delivering the Cybertruck to US customers at the end of November 2023, although it’s unclear how many trucks are being built yet. The first 1,000 models are part of the so-called ‘Foundation Series’, with a $99,990 price tag and a 340-mile (574 km) range.

Contamination or corrosion?

But it seems Tesla’s radical look, with a geometric shape and stainless steel panels, like the DeLorean DMC-12 from Back to the Future, does come with some compromise. Several owners have turned to forums about corrosion spots on their brand-new trucks.

However, it seems like it isn’t the panels themselves that are rusting. More likely, it’s rail dust or other contaminants adhering to the ‘naked’ steel forming these spots. They can be washed off, and several owners and detailers are already looking into the most efficient way to do this, as the Cybertruck Owners’ Club reported.

Weathered look over time

These bare steel panels require extra care than painted panels on most cars. Tesla advises to wash off any dirt, bird poop, road salt, and other contaminants quickly to avoid any staining. The manufacturer mentions in the owner’s manual that “It is normal for the stainless steel exterior to mature over time, resulting in minor changes to the reflective properties and color of the metal.”

It remains to be seen if the Cybertruck will age as nicely as a painted car or if it will take serious care from the owner to keep it looking brand-new.

Skip the line for 30,000 credits

Another controversial topic arising in the Cybertruck world is Tesla’s offering to accelerate the delivery of reservation holders in exchange for referral credits. Tesla has had this credit system for years now, where referrals from owners when you buy or test drive a Tesla model can earn them credits to use on free Supercharging or even discounts and, in extreme cases, a free new Tesla.

Now, Tesla has offered a select amount of reservation holders for the Cybertruck the option to skip the line and get their truck by April instead of August for 30,000 credits, the equivalent of referring to three new car purchases or 30 test drives.

Two million reservations, but how many orders?

The new perk was sold out within hours, although it is not clear how many people cashed it in. Customers also had to choose the Foundation Series AWD or Cyberbeast (tri-motor) to claim this perk. It will likely return in the future, though, with Tesla stating, “If you miss your chance to claim, check back later for additional accelerated deliveries.”

Tesla claims to have received 2 million reservations for the Cybertruck, but this is a global figure and entails just a $100 refundable cost to put your name down. The company has not communicated any delivery numbers yet; this might have to wait until Q1 has finished.